Sixty UK, which also controls the Energie fashion brand, has 12 high street stores and operates concessions in department stores such as House of Fraser. Its brands are also sold through independent fashion outlets across the UK.

Accountancy firm Vantis has been appointed administrators and said: "The business is currently operating as normal, with all stores remaining open and supplies to concessions and independents being unaffected.

"It is hoped arrangements will be reached that will enable the business to continue into the future. There have been no redundancies at either head office or any outlets."

In the past week soft furnishings group Roseby's, Homewares chain Joy and couturier Hardy Amies have all collapsed as consumer confidence - and spending power - ebbs away. Auditors to JJB also warned there is no guarantee the sportswear chain will survive.

Miss Sixty is based in Italy and has offshoots in countries ranging from Serbia to Saudi Arabia and Brazil. The UK business, the only subsidiary put into administration, was started a decade ago. The label showed at New York fashion week last month in front of an audience including actors from hit TV shows such as Ugly Betty and Gossip Girl.